Kelowna cops to crackdown on roadside panhandling

John McDonald

RCMP

(CHARLOTTE HELSTON /InfoTel Multimedia)

February 16, 2016 - 10:30 AM

KELOWNA - If you've ever felt uneasy when approached by a panhandler while stopped at a red light, you'll be relieved to know Kelowna RCMP and city bylaw officers have announced a crackdown on what they term 'aggressive roadside panhandling'.

RCMP will begin increased enforcement this week on people asking for money from motorists idling at intersections, Kelowna RCMP spokesman Const. Jesse O’Donaghey says in a press release.

Police allege the people are causing distractions and delays to passing motorists with their activities.

O’Donaghey says drivers should not feel compelled to offer money to anyone who approaches them at an intersection and should report the activity to Kelowna RCMP or city bylaw officers.

He says the Motor Vehicle Act prohibits soliciting from vehicles from a roadside or in an agressive manner, both carrying a fine of $109. The Safe Streets Act bans soliciting from a person in a vehicle, and comes with a fine of $86.

To contact a reporter for this story, email John McDonald at jmcdonald@infonews.ca or call 250-808-0143. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.

OPINION Editor, This is a busy time of year, but I find it’s also a time of reflection, particularly as January marks the end of my two-year term as Chair and my 10 years serving on the Board of Interior